- Topic: Best noodles for pho in USA (2026 guide)
- Best for: Beef pho, chicken pho, shrimp pho, quick weeknight bowls
- Noodle types: Dried rice sticks, fresh banh pho
- Widths: Thin (2–3mm), medium (3–5mm), wide (6–10mm)
- Updated: 2026
If you want a bowl that tastes right, start with the best noodles for pho. In the USA, you will see both dried rice sticks and fresh banh pho at grocery stores and Asian markets. The best pick depends on the broth, the protein, and how chewy you want the bite.
If you are building your home cooking basics, this guide pairs well with the best cookbooks for beginners.
| Noodle | Fresh/Dried | Cut | Best for | Typical Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Three Ladies Rice Stick (Banh Pho) | Dried | Medium flat (3–4mm) | Classic pho bowls | $4–$8 (14–16 oz) |
| Bamboo Tree Banh Pho Rice Noodles | Dried | Medium flat (3–5mm) | Chewy bite, steady texture | $3–$7 (400g) |
| Caravelle Rice Sticks (Banh Pho) | Dried | Thin–medium flat | Fast weeknight pho | $3–$7 (14–16 oz) |
| Annie Chun’s Rice Noodles | Dried | Thin flat | Quick pantry option | $4–$9 (pack varies) |
| Thai Kitchen Thin Rice Noodles | Dried | Thin strands | Light broths, quick cook | $3–$6 (8–9 oz) |
| Lee’s Noodle Fresh Banh Pho | Fresh | Flat rice sticks | Soft, fresh texture | $3–$6 (1 lb) |
Best Classic Rice Sticks for Pho
Three Ladies Rice Stick (Banh Pho)
Three Ladies is a safe pick when you want the familiar pho noodle texture: soft in the middle with a little pull when you bite. It holds up well in hot broth, so the noodles stay pleasant through the bowl.
In the USA, this is also one of the easier “pho rice stick” packs to find at Asian markets and online grocery shops. Go with a thin or medium width for most home pho.
Best Dried Noodles for a Chewy Bite
Bamboo Tree Banh Pho Rice Noodles
Bamboo Tree rice sticks are a strong choice if you like noodles that stay firm. They work well for beef pho and richer broths because the noodles keep their shape.
Cook them carefully. Soak first, then finish in hot water for a short time. That helps you avoid mushy noodles.
Best Pantry Pick for Fast Pho
Caravelle Rice Sticks (Banh Pho)
Caravelle rice sticks are handy when you want a fast bowl without a special trip. They soften quickly and take on broth flavor well.
If you are making pho for two, this is also a good pack size to keep in the pantry. Store it in a sealed container once opened to keep it from drying out too much.
Best Quick Pack for Weeknight Bowls
Annie Chun’s Rice Noodles
Annie Chun’s noodles are easy to find in many USA grocery stores. They cook quickly, which helps on busy days.
They work best with lighter broths and simple toppings. If you load the bowl with heavier meats, use a slightly thicker rice stick instead.
Best Thin Noodles for Light Broth
Thai Kitchen Thin Rice Noodles
If you like a lighter feel, Thai Kitchen thin rice noodles cook fast and stay delicate. They are a good match for chicken pho or shrimp pho.
Since they are thin, watch the timing. Pull them early, rinse fast, then add them to the bowl and pour broth on top.
Best Fresh Noodles for a Soft Texture
Lee’s Noodle Fresh Banh Pho
Fresh banh pho has a softer, more “fresh-shop” chew that dried noodles do not fully match. Lee’s Noodle fresh rice sticks are a solid option when you can find them chilled.
Use them soon after buying. If they are vacuum packed, keep them cold and follow the date on the pack. For the best bowl, warm them in hot water, then add broth.
How to Choose the Best Noodles for Pho
Pick the width by the broth
- Thin (2–3mm): lighter broths, chicken, shrimp
- Medium (3–5mm): most beef pho bowls
- Wide (6–10mm): heavy toppings, big “slurp” texture
Dried vs fresh
- Dried: easy to store, easy to find in the USA
- Fresh: softer chew, shorter shelf life
If you like learning noodle texture, you can also compare how dough noodles behave in best flour for pasta (useful for cooking feel, even though pho noodles are rice-based).
FAQs
Flat rice sticks (banh pho) in a medium width are the most common choice for home pho bowls in the USA.
Fresh noodles feel softer and more “fresh-market.” Dried noodles are easier to store and still taste good with the right cooking time.
Medium flat rice sticks (about 3–5mm) work well for beef pho because they hold up in hot broth.
Soak dried noodles first, then finish in hot water for a short time. Keep them out of boiling water for long stretches.
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